In 2012, Achint attended Pyramind and took the Electronic Music Producer (EMP) Program here in San Francisco, California. At Pyramind, he learned the finer aspects of music production techniques and composition while still continuing to write music for films and ad jingles. His tracks “Komal” and “Impression” were released on two compilations on Pyramind’s label, Epiphyte Records, after winning first place in our Test Press competitions.
Achint’s music could be described as a hybrid, heavily influenced by the culture of the Indian subcontinent and western aesthetics. You can expect to hear glimpses of sounds from different parts of the world, including Brazil, China, Africa and Turkey, coupled with electronic arrangements. Achint’s Soundcloud page showcases his remix work quite nicely.
Thakkar’s passion for experimentation subsequently led him to compose music for films. His original score for Omar Iyer’s ‘Mon Ami Noire’ won him Best Music at the Profire Film Festival 2012, Scotland.
Soon after returning from the US, Achint began completing work on his debut solo album, “Shalimar”, and subsequently signed a record deal with Times Music India.
Achint – Shalimar Album Cover
“Shalimar” is a blend of trend & tradition. Combining electronic grooves with poems by the 17th century sufi poet, Bulleh Shah, thick basslines with folk music, and synthesizers with classical music. The record features some extremely talented musicians, including A.R. Rahman’s flautist, Naveen Kumar, singer Neeti Mohan, rapper Blaaze, and folk musicians from Rajasthan, Bhutte Khan & Multan Khan. The album is entirely produced by Achint himself, mixed by Grammy winning mixing engineer P.A. Deepak at A.R. Rahman’s A.M. Studio in Chennai, and mastered by Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios, London.
Achint’s live set consists of a four-piece band that includes Achint Thakkar (Vocals, Keys, Guitar) and Suraj Manik (Bass).
Collectively, the quartet provides a high-energy performance delivering fresh sounds and a unique showcase of Achint’s music. The band’s show is combined with live visuals created by animator Nikunj Patel, while Akash Sawant handles the live sound.
All these elements combine to give the listener not just a unique aural experience, but also a visual one.
Update 11/18/20
In 2020 Achint landed a stellar placement for the theme song of Scam 1992 The Harshad Mehta Story. See below to hear the track and watch the show’s trailer.
